Stress is a common condition that affects many people. From a functional medicine perspective, stress is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body, rather than a condition in and of itself. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and treatments of stress from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of stress

Stress can present in many different ways, depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms of stress include:

• Anxiety or irritability
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Headaches or migraines
• Digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation
• High blood pressure or heart palpitations

Causes of stress

Stress can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Chronic inflammation
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Environmental toxins
• Genetic predisposition
• Chronic stress and emotional trauma
• Medical conditions such as adrenal fatigue or thyroid dysfunction

Treatments for stress

The treatment of stress from a functional medicine perspective typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications. Some common treatments for stress may include:

• Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
• Dietary changes such as reducing sugar and processed food intake and increasing consumption of whole foods
• Nutritional supplementation with key nutrients such as magnesium, vitamin B complex, and omega-3 fatty acids
• Balancing hormones through targeted supplementation or medication
• Reducing exposure to environmental toxins
• Addressing underlying inflammation or infection through targeted supplementation or medication
• Incorporating regular physical activity or exercise

Tests for stress

• Blood sugar
• Food intolerances
• Histamine intolerance
• Gut tests
• SIBO
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)
• Neurotransmitters: Basic, Plus
• Heavy metals
• Organic acids

In conclusion, stress is a common condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. From a functional medicine perspective, stress is viewed as a symptom of an underlying issue in the body. By identifying and addressing the underlying cause of the stress through a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplements or medications, patients can find relief from their symptoms and achieve optimal health and wellness.